Stray New Zealand Big North - Freestyle Travel Pass

Stray New Zealand Big North - Freestyle Travel Pass

The North Island of New Zealand is just waiting to blow you away, with stunning scenery, incredible hidden gems, hikes for days, and good times galore! The Big North will have you exploring it all. Starting from Auckland, travel to the far North, see Cape Reinga at the very tip of the North Island, where the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean collide. Spend time in the North Island's premier beach locations, experience intriguing geothermal landscapes, learn about Maori culture, stay on on a high country farm station, hike the epic Tongariro Crossing, and explore Wellington, New Zealand's capital city.

Auckland to Paihia

Depart northbound for the relaxed seaside town of Paihia. We stop en-route at the Parry Kauri Forest Park to hug some of the world’s mightiest trees, the native kauri.

Paihia to Cape Reinga to Paihia

Our destination today is Cape Reinga, where the Tasman and Pacific Oceans clash at the northernmost point of the country. The trip includes a walk in a kauri forest and sand boarding.

Paihia to Auckland

Spend the morning at your leisure or take this opportunity to hike to the Haruru Falls or hang out on the beach. Then we jump back on board the Stray bus, destined for Auckland.

Auckland to Hahei

Depart Auckland for Hahei, renowned for its natural beauty and pristine swimming beach. If the tide is in our favour, you'll go to the unique Hot Water Beach where you can dig your own personal spa pool in the sand!

Hahei

Relax on the beach or take a scenic walk or kayak to the nearby Cathedral Cove. If you prefer water sports go scuba diving, snorkelling or take a glass bottom boat tour.

Hahei to Rotorua

We leave Hahei early travelling through the Waikato region. You have the opportunity to visit the famous Hobbiton or continue on to Rotorua where there are plenty of other activities on offer. The Hobbiton goers will return early evening.

Rotorua

Discover an area rich in Maori heritage, adventure activities and bubbling geothermal wonders. Visit the Waitomo Caves or go for some whitewater rafting or zorbing.

Rotorua to Lake Aniwhenua

Depart to Lake Aniwhenua. Here you'll learn about Maori culture and learn how to cook a traditional ‘Hangi’ dinner!

Lake Aniwhenua to Whakahoro

Depart to drop lunch packs off at a nearby school as part of an inspiring community project On to Taupo to visit Huka Falls and then we head to Whakahoro. We stay at Blue Duck Station, a conservation farm.

Whakahoro

Today is yours to fully explore! Go on a 4WD bush safari, horseback riding, kayaking or walk to the Kaiwhakauka waterfall.

Whakahoro to Raetihi

Today you get the chance to hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, considered one of the top walks in the world. This walk will take you across a rocky plateau with Mars-like vistas, dramatic volcanic peaks and turquoise lakes.Tonight we stay in an historic Nurses Home in Raetihi.

Raetihi to Wellington

Today is mostly an express day to get to Wellington. The afternoon is yours to explore the sights, Oriental Parade or viewing the excellent exhibits on display at Te Papa National Museum.

Wellington to Auckland (via Raetihi)

Today is an express journey from Wellington to Auckland. We stop in Raetihi and National Park on the way.